Matt and Amy Rowe have been overwhelmed by the local support for their mission to raise awareness for their daughter Nadia’s condition. Born with Cytomegalovirus, or CMV, their daughter has faced several obstacles such as developmental milestone delays, losing sight in one eye and a few scares just after birth. When Matt received a bid to run for a cause at the New York City Marathon, his coveted entry meant so much more than participating in an iconic running event.
“As far as the race goes, I’m so excited and can’t help but daydream about it on most of my runs,” he said. “I’ve put a lot of time into training and my family has sacrificed just as much to let me prepare.”
What has really kept Rowe’s focus strong is the influx of local sponsors, fundraising events and donations that have made his experience possible. His goal of $4,000 is about to be met and Rowe says he would be excited to exceed the original expectations.
“The support of our community has been amazing. I never could have imagined how much individuals, businesses and schools would help carry us to our goal,” Rowe said. “We don’t even know a lot of people that are giving so generously.”
Supporters will have another opportunity to rally behind this family on Friday night at the Daviess County High School football game versus Marshall County. The home game, themed “Blackout,” offers panther fans the opportunity to wear a unique t-shirt in support of CMV awareness while cheering for their favorite team as well. T-shirts are $10 and can be purchased at the game. Kickoff is at 7 p.m.
“It will seem surreal as I stand on the start line in Staten Island waiting to race into Brooklyn,” Rowe said. “I will know that the support of our community got me there.”
